David Sedgwick

Young people are being given the chance to dress to impress as they get a boost on the career ladder.

Kier North Tyneside has given its full backing to a charity collecting unwanted suits or business wear for underprivileged young people.

Once again Kier North Tyneside employees have been extremely generous in their support of a charitable initiative.

Mike Furze, Kier regional director

The campaign, run by Newcastle-based Foundation Futures, encouraged people to donate any unwanted suits or business wear.

Donations – included suits, jackets, coats, shirts, trousers and a wide selection of ties – were then given to young people to help boost their confidence during interviews.

Christine Henwood, Foundation Futures co-founder, said: “A major barrier facing disadvantaged and disengaged young people trying to progress to further training, apprenticeships or employment is having nothing suitable to wear to their interview, which affects their confidence and can ruin that crucial first impression.

“Just putting on a suit can have a huge impact on a young person’s confidence.

“Kier North Tyneside employees have been so generous supporting our campaign and we would like to thank them very much.”

Mike Furze, Kier regional director, said: “Once again Kier North Tyneside employees have been extremely generous in their support of a charitable initiative.

“We have been operating in North Tyneside for over five years, so we all feel very passionate about supporting the local community.

“I hope that this donation will give disadvantaged young people not only a practical item they can use, but the confidence that they look the part and the feeling that they belong in a professional environment.”

For more information about Foundation Futures visit www.foundationfutures.org.uk